By Thomas H.
Whether hosting engaging events or helping clients navigate the complex Medicaid home care waiver, Mason Wallack’s passion for service and community is inspiring. He shared about his role as Community Engagement Specialist with JEVS Care at Home (JCAH).
Tell us about your professional background and how you came to JCAH.
I grew up in the Northeast section of Philadelphia and have worked various sales and customer services roles in retail, financial services, and event technology services. I started working at JEVS Human Services in 2016 supporting their career assessment tools for workforce development. After the pandemic I worked in business operations at a clinical research organization. I returned to JEVS Care at Home in 2023 as a Community Engagement Specialist. The role was timely as several of my family members received home care during the pandemic instead of needing to reside in a long-term care facility, which improved their quality of life.
What do you do in your role as Community Engagement Specialist (CES)?
As a CES, I provide home care resources in the community to seniors and adults with disabilities who are seeking services so they can live fully and independently at home. In addition to providing resources, I also host fun and educational events at senior apartment buildings, senior centers, and community organizations. Currently the most popular event is “Piano and Pizza” where I perform Motown classics, Oldies, and Big Band tunes on the piano over a pizza lunch. I provide an overview of our services during the performance, and after the music I have an opportunity to connect one-on-one with attendees to find out how I can support their needs.
What aspect of your work do you find most fulfilling?
One of the resources our CES team provides is support with enrollment in Home and Community Based Services (HCBS), the Medicaid homecare waiver. Approval can take up to 90 days, and requires multiple home visits from agencies (Maximus, PCA, MCO) before services can begin. With our help, we can get the enrollment time cut down and provide helpful tips for approval. Due to the complex nature of the waiver application process, I find this most fulfilling as it provides a direct benefit to the participant and their family.
How would you explain “The JCAH Difference” to a potential client or partner organization?
We are mission-driven at JCAH to help seniors and adults with disabilities live independently at home. Our main difference is the unique plan of care each client receives directed by our nursing staff on the JCAH Health and Education team. We also make sure to connect with supporting family members to inform them of the plan of care, keeping all interested parties in the loop.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I am a wedding DJ and musician. It brings me great joy to perform and share music with others!
If you could acquire a superpower, what would it be?
I’m always working towards true empathy.
Tell us an interesting/little-known fact about yourself.
I’m a proud father and husband. I currently live in South Philadelphia near the Sports complex and love Philly sports, especially during the playoffs!